Construction of Z scheme system of ZnIn2S4/RGO/BiVO4 and its performance for hydrogen generation under visible light

Abstract A series of Z scheme systems are constructed in three ways and the photocatalytic H 2 evolution activities are evaluated under visible light irradiation. The Z scheme system can be constructed by loading ZnIn 2 S 4 onto BiVO 4 . The H 2 evolution is successfully realized under the visible light without providing a sacrificial agent, and the activity is greatly improved when the graphene is acted as a solid electron mediator. The best Z scheme system of 1.0La-ZnIn 2 S 4 /1.5RGO/1.0RuO 2 /BiVO 4 (1:5) is obtained. Its photocatalytic H 2 evolution activity and the A.Q.Y. reach 4.1 μmol g −1  h and 0.8%, respectively. Furthermore, its property is characterized by various analysis techniques, such as XRD, Raman, SEM, BET and PL, and the catalytic mechanism is also discussed.